Trump's 250-Foot Arch Gains Defense Role as Hegseth, Mullin Pitch Drone and Sniper Uses
Updated
Updated · POLITICO · Oct 31
Trump's 250-Foot Arch Gains Defense Role as Hegseth, Mullin Pitch Drone and Sniper Uses
3 articles · Updated · POLITICO · Oct 31
Summary
Court filings Wednesday recast President Donald Trump's proposed 250-foot arch near Arlington National Cemetery as a security asset, not just a monument.
Pete Hegseth said the structure could counter drone threats and double as a sniper platform, calling it a "generational national defense opportunity."
Markwayne Mullin argued the arch would also help the Secret Service protect senior officials through expanded monitoring capabilities.
The defense rationale was submitted in federal court as the administration fights a legal challenge to the project, broadening the case for the monument beyond symbolism.